Numerical Analysis on the Cavitation Performance of a Seawater Cooling Pump

Abstract

In this study, a centrifugal seawater cooling pump was analyzed to investigate its cavitation behavior over different operating flow rates. 3D two-phase simulations were carried out with ANSYS-CFX commercial code. The k-e turbulence and Rayleigh-Plesset cavitation models were employed in the simulations. A head drop characteristics curves for three discharge rates was built based on numerical predictions. At higher flow rates, the impeller was more vulnerable to bubble cavitation. The 3 % head drop points of the pump working at 0.7Q, Q, and 1.3Q (Q: design flow rate) corresponded with NPSHa 1.21 m, 1.83 m, and 3.45 m, respectively. The volume of vapor bubbles was estimated and cavitation locations were anticipated to visualize the development of the cavity within the impeller. Moreover, the distribution of pressure coefficient and a blade loading chart are specifically presented, bringing out the harmful impacts of cavitation on the pump operation.